Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls

Name: Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore these Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls; they perfectly blend rich chocolate with the tartness of cranberries. Each time I make them, my kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that captivates everyone around. The gooey chocolate center oozes out when you take a bite, and the combination of the chocolate and the slightly sweet, tangy cranberries creates an explosion of flavor. This recipe is ideal for gatherings or a cozy treat at home, and it’s surprisingly simple to make!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-16T14:24:28.894Z

When I first experimented with combining chocolate and cranberries, I knew I was onto something special. The sweetness of the chocolate harmonized beautifully with the cranberry's tartness, and the result was beyond what I had hoped for! Each roll I baked melted in my mouth, offering a taste of pure joy.

One of my favorite tips is to slightly underbake the rolls for a gooey center. This gives them that melting quality that everyone adores, just remember to serve them warm for the best experience! They have become a beloved treat in our home, always disappearing quickly.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh tart cranberries
Gooey center that melts in your mouth
Perfect for holidays or indulgent afternoons

      

Understanding Key Ingredients

The primary ingredients for these Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls play significant roles in achieving their irresistible flavor and texture. All-purpose flour is the base that provides structure, while the sugar not only sweetens the dough but also enhances browning during baking. The addition of baking powder is crucial as it allows the rolls to rise, creating a soft and fluffy interior. The butter contributes richness and moisture, while the milk binds the ingredients, ensuring a tender roll that contrasts beautifully with the molten chocolate filling.

Cranberries bring a delightful tartness that cuts through the richness of the chocolate. When selecting dried cranberries, look for those that are plump and sweetened—this enhances their flavor and ensures every bite is bursting with juicy goodness. For the chocolate chips, dark chocolate is recommended, as its depth complements the tart cranberries perfectly. If you're looking for a slightly sweeter alternative, semi-sweet chocolate can work as well, but be aware that it will alter the overall flavor balance.

Tips for Perfecting Your Rolls

When rolling out the dough, ensure your surface is well-floured to prevent sticking. Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch; thicker dough might not cook through properly, while thinner dough may not hold the filling adequately. After rolling, cutting into rectangles of uniform size helps maintain even baking. If you prefer larger rolls, feel free to adjust the dimensions, but remember to monitor cooking time, as larger rolls will take longer to bake and need a few extra minutes in the oven.

An excellent way to check for doneness is to look for golden brown edges and an aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth. If you want a glossy finish on top, brushing the rolls with a bit of melted butter right before baking can enhance their appearance, giving them a beautiful sheen. Additionally, these rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to recapture that melty goodness.

Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup milk
1 large egg

For the Filling

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Make sure to mix the dough well for a soft consistency!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. In another bowl, combine milk and egg, then stir into the dry ingredients until just combined.

Mix in the Filling

Fold in the dark chocolate chips and cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Shape the Rolls

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into rectangles and roll each one tightly. Place them seam-side down on a baking sheet.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake rolls for 20 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!

Let them cool slightly before serving to enjoy the delightful gooeyness.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, dust the rolls with powdered sugar just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The warmth of the rolls combined with the cold creaminess creates a lovely contrast that appeals to the senses. For a brunch gathering, consider serving them with assorted jams or even a spiced apple compote for a festive touch.

If you're feeling adventurous, try drizzling a simple glaze over the rolls after they've cooled slightly. A mix of powdered sugar and milk, or a hint of orange zest in the icing can add brightness that complements the chocolate and cranberry flavors beautifully. These rolls also make for a spectacular centerpiece on a dessert table, offering guests a visual treat that invites them to indulge.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These rolls can be made ahead of time for convenience. Prepare the dough and filling, then shape the rolls and refrigerate them for up to 12 hours before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld. Just make sure to cover them properly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, there’s no need to let them come to room temperature; they can go straight into the preheated oven, adding a few extra minutes if they're chilled.

If you have leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Freeze unbaked rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, there's no need to thaw; simply bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy fresh, gooey rolls anytime a craving strikes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, but fresh cranberries are more tart, so you may want to add a bit more sugar to balance the flavors.

→ How do I store the leftover rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can warm them slightly in the microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze these rolls?

Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked rolls, and when ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for milk?

You can use any non-dairy milk alternative like almond or oat milk for this recipe.